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New life for Al’s Billiards building
Al’s Billiards
Since Al’s Billiards closed down in 2016, the 3,568 square-foot brick building on 128 S. Center St. has remained vacant, with most of the original branding still standing. That may soon change as a proposal has been submitted to the City to open a new bar (CHRISTOPHER CORREA/The Journal).

The historic 3,568 square-foot brick building at 128 S. Center St. that has been vacant since Al’s Billiards closed down in 2016 may soon be joining Turlock’s downtown nightlife scene as a proposal was submitted to open a new bar in the location.

Dan Leonis and 39 Milestone LLC., submitted plans to the City to renovate the space and open a new bar.

“The proposed business will not differ from the services previously provided at this location, which consisted of entertainment and amusement through billiards, darts and occasional live music,” Leonis stated in the proposal. “[It’s a] well established building with longstanding history and business in the city of Turlock.

The building was originally constructed in 1912. Since Al’s Billiards closed down in 2016, it has remained vacant, with most of the original branding still standing.

This isn’t the first time that Leonis has tried to revamp the space. He originally applied for a permit in September 2016. At that time, Leonis told the Turlock Journal that he was inspired by two of his uncles, who both owned bars in San Jose.

Leonis declined to comment on the latest proposal to the city, although he has promised to provide more detailed updates in the future.

If approved, the project is estimated to have a turnaround time of approximately six months. The bar would be open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. with a maximum occupancy of 147. It would also be the fourth bar in downtown Turlock, joining the Grand Cru, The Udder Place and Staley’s Club. This list does not include downtown restaurants with bar areas inside them.

The Turlock Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the proposal at 6 p.m. March 2 at City Hall.